Back, Jack.

So after 30+ hours of traveling I'm back. It was quite a trip. I haven't processed everything yet. Partially because there's much to process. And partially because I know processing will lead to convictions which will lead to change. Which will be great. After I sleep, eat and drink too much for a few days.

So in lieu of the deep stuff I'll share some lighter stuff on this weblog. Story calisthenics. Pictures will come shortly as well. But you should know that chances are for a good while I'm going to be THAT guy. You'll tell me about the delicious tacos you had over the weekend and I'll say, "In Nigeria, I had pounded yams." It'll be annoying. Love me in spite of it.

So, DAY TWO in Nigeria.....
I disrespected the Chief of the Rakuba tribe. I tried to shake his hand after initially walking right past him. The videographer recognized him and called me over to introduce. I first stopped and shook the hand of the Chief's whip-handler. No joke. He drives the Chief around and whips people if needed. I didn't know that at the time. So after that brief greeting, I came over and said, "Oh...hey, wow, Chief, nice to meet you. I'm Brad" and stuck out my hand. He stared at it for a little and said, "People do not address me in this manner. You're not from around here." I apologized profusely. He glared at my feet and eventually said, "It's ok." A few minutes later the guys from the drilling crew came by and I saw how people DO address the Chief. They crouch down (like a catcher) and wait for the Chief to acknowledge them. This doesn't always happen right away. So eventually he nods and they stand up and then stare at the ground until the Chief leaves. They call him things like, "Your Royal Highness." Like 300,000 people do. He's a powerful guy. Not the kind of guy you slap fives with and talk about the crazy weather we're having. His stare is immasculating. He tells you to dig a 12 ft. hole and you ask how many. I wanted to disappear when he scolded me. I wanted a Dolorean with a flux capacitor when I saw the drill crew crouch down. It felt like when you screw up as a kid and let your parents down/piss them off and you'd do ANYTHING for a reconciliatory hug. I didn't get that hug. I didn't even get him to look me in the eyes so i could mouth, "I'm sorry" again.

Hey to the Chief. Great way to start the week.